UPDATE: Snake found in shop’s fridge was likely already dead
It is suspected that the African rock python that was found in Komatipoort SUPERSPAR fridge on Friday died before it was removed.
KOMATIPOORT – Local snake remover Danie Louw says the python that was found in the local SUPERSPAR on Friday afternoon was likely already dead.
A supervisor came across the 3,5 m African Rock Python sleeping among the yogurt and dairy products while restocking the shelves around 15:00.
The store manager, Mr Gert Myburgh, says they have no idea how the snake slipped into the fridge. “I’ve scanned the CCTV footage and couldn’t spot it getting in from the front of the store. I suspect it came through a drain in the fridge.”
The snake didn’t move when it was spotted and the area was quickly cordoned off for customers’ safety. A customer offered to help remove the snake and kept it in a safe area for a while.
Louw says staff contacted him for aid, but since he was not close, he sent a knowledgeable friend to fetch the snake and release it on his farm near the river.
The friend told him that the snake looked dead, but they agreed to wait until the next morning. There was still no sign of movement from the snake and it was pronounced dead.
Louw studies photos posted on social media and says little signs like the way the snake’s skin and head drooped makes him suspect the snake died in the fridge. “Maybe it was too cold or maybe it touched a wire. I’d be interested to found out how it died,” he said.
WATCH: Leopard Attacks Python in Kruger
Myburgh says they suspect the snake followed something into the store, like one of the stray cats that hang around the area. “I called the refrigeration guys to come and see if the snake could have gained access through that system and maybe put up a sieve to avoid any such future situations.”
READ: Python eats wallaby on Australian golf course
Over the weekend, many people commented on the situation on facebook, with rumours also circulating that the snake had been killed by staff or community members. However, the majority of people joked about the snake’s love for yogurt and were curious as to how the snake managed to get in the fridge.
Louw emphasised that you need a permit to own a snake or its skin as it is a protected species and stated that people without permits could get into trouble.
